"Ecological engineering is the design of sustainable ecosystems that integrate human society with its natural
environment for the benefit of both. It involves the design, construction and management of ecosystems that have value
to both humans and the environment. Ecological engineering combines basic and applied science from engineering, ecology,
economics, and natural sciences for the restoration and construction of aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. The field is
increasing in breadth and depth as more opportunities to design and use ecosystems as interfaces between technology and
environment are explored."
Two other pioneers and leading voices in the field, William Mitsch and Sven Erik Jorgensen, laid out some foundational
thinking to take this science forward in their book “Ecological Engineering and Ecosystem Restoration” (1989). They looked
at ecological engineering as designing societal services such that they benefit society and nature, and that they should be
systems based, self-organized, sustainable, and integrate society with its natural environment.
One important foundation on which ecological engineering works is that it fits into the basic foundations of ecology, being
sensitive to the chains and cycles of our ecosystems. It is human activities that disturb these natural processes that have
caused complications. Rachel Carson, writing in the sixties when the environmental movement got started, exposed the problems
posed by the use of DDT and its harmful effects on nature as well as human beings. The title of her controversial
book “Silent Spring” implied that there would be a spring season in which no bird songs could be heard, because they had all
died from pesticide. Anything we do in our environment has wider repercussions.
Some Basic Principles
Ecological engineering calls for a paradigm shift - philosophically, scientifically, technically, economically and
ecologically. In a way it is common sense solutions that require a sound understanding of how our environment works. In
keeping we develop some principles of Ecological Engineering that will be guiding lights for us as we move ahead.
First, Ecological Engineering is ecologically based. Ecology is the scientific study of interactions of organisms with
one another and with the natural environment. It is the study of how living things and their environment interact with one
another. There is an intricate interrelationship among organisms and between organisms, and all living and non-living beings
in the environment. If there are indeed such interrelationships any tampering of these interconnections can cause grave
disturbances. Therefore the solutions must be based on restoring these interconnections.
Second, Ecological Engineering incorporates and adapts engineering and technology based solutions. Ecological
engineering should not be confused with some ecological solutions that want to bypass newer technologies. Modern technologies
can be adapted carefully to ensure that the environment is not affected adversely. Ecological engineering is a healthy blend
between ecology and technology.
Third, Ecological Engineering is based on principles of sustainable development. Sustainable development is a much
used term today. "Sustainable development is development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability
of future generations to meet their own needs” as the UN Brundtland Commission defined. The definition contains within it two
key concepts. First, the concept of 'needs', in particular the basic needs of the world's poor. And secondly, there is reference
to limitations imposed by technology and social organization on the environment. We need to address these issues as we explore
sustainability at every level.
Fourth, Ecological Engineering is mutually beneficial to humans and the environment. Critics of modern environmental
development based on economic advancement attack our “human-centered” approaches that have not taken nature and its intricacies
into account. Ecological engineering calls for actions that will bring about mutual benefits for both the environment and
humans.
Fifth, Ecological Engineering is based on integrated systems. Integration is a word used today for bringing
together otherwise fragmented parts. It is based on the theory of holism where the whole is seen to be greater than the sum
of the parts. Rather than considering piece-meal solutions Ecological Engineering looks at the whole. The key solution for
present and future ecological problems is in such integration systems approach that looks at our ecosystems as whole units.
Sixth, Ecological Engineering focuses on reuse and recovery of waste. In our increasingly consumerist society with
plenty to consume, waste has become a growing problem. In India mounds of garbage lie unattended and where attention is being
given there are environmentally destructive technologies being employed. Such actions are compounding our ecological crisis. Ecological
Engineering considers waste to be a resource. In other words, waste if treated scientifically, nutrients could be recovered and
used beneficially for various purposes.
Seventh, Ecological Engineering is ultimately concerned for both environmental conservation and human survival. As
threats of climate change and severe environmental degradation loom large before us, we must consider not only how we survive
but also how the environment can be sustained.
For comments contact:
gnanakan@vsnl.com
ACTS is an affiliated member of the International Ecological Engineering Society based in Switzerland. For details please
visit:
www.iees.ch
ACTS and Ecological Engineering
ACTS has pioneered Eco-toilets in Bangalore and in tsunami hit Nagapattnam, Waste water Pond technologies in West Bengal
and a variety of ecological engineering initiatives for energy and agriculture/horticulture on its campus in Rayasandra,
outside Bangalore, India.
ACTS Institute of Sustainable Development (AISD) is based on the principles of sustainable development and operates from
its campus outside Bangalore. AISD provides training for students of the ACTS Institute, getting them involved in waste
management activities, rural organic farming and bio-energy projects.
AISD campus in Kalyani, outside Kolkata is getting ready with fish pond constructions. There will be a medicinal plant
garden that will be integrated. A new AISD will begin activities in Meghalaya with collaborations from German and Swiss
partners.
